Eleven parents celebrated completing a transformative 10-week parenting course at Oldham Library, where they learned strategies to build stronger, calmer relationships with their children through the Family Links Nurture Programme.

The course, delivered by Oldham Parenting Team through the council’s Family Hubs initiative, equipped participants with tools to manage emotions and behavior during challenging family moments. Louise Hall, mother of three, discovered new approaches to daily struggles. “I’m dealing with things now in a different way. In situations where I’d shout, it has helped me to remain calm,” she explained. “I used to cry all the time but now I don’t cry all the time like I used to.”

Fellow participants echoed similar breakthroughs. Sherree Hopkins, who has two daughters, noted: “It helps you to recognise when you need to take a step back. I have two girls and my eldest is now coming to me more and my youngest is more understanding of herself and her sister.” Fatoom Dar emphasized the emotional support: “I have got a lot out of it and I have learnt so much. This course has been a good reminder that we are not alone.”

The programme’s impact extended beyond individual growth, creating lasting bonds among attendees. Parenting officer Nicola Carnes observed: “During this 10-week course, friendships have been formed and they are planning to meet up afterwards. It’s about knowing someone is there for them and they have formed a support network. They have bonded so nicely.” Spanish interpreter Sally Mitchell, who assisted South American father Jonathan Martinez, also received a certificate. “I’ve really bonded with them all and it’s sad that it’s finished,” she reflected. “I might practise what I’ve learnt on my grandchildren.”

Two new courses launch in January - at Oldham Library from January 15 and Failsworth Town Hall from January 23. Parents can register by emailing [email protected].

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